PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – The College Board reports that less than half of those who took the SATs in 2013 are ready to succeed in college. Only 43% of the test takers met or exceeded the benchmark score of 1550, out of a total of 2400, the same as last year.

Nearly 80% who take advanced placement courses meet that benchmark.

Those who do, have a better chance of a B- average or higher during the first year of college and persisting to graduation, according to an article in The Chronicle of Higher Education.

Critics believe the tests are unfair to low-income students who have less access to advanced placement classes and test-preparation materials. Those with English as a second language have difficulty also, although they do as well as peers in the math.

The College Board and the federal Department of Education know that these students need help, which unfortunately will not come soon enough for SAT test takers this January.